I have to thank my father for instilling the love of photography into my life. I've had a camera in my hand since the age of eight years old -- my first Polaroid was given to me in 1971 by my parents. In Junior High, I was introduced to the darkroom by a dedicated teacher, who took the time to show how photography can be used as a medium for self expression. I had always felt inept in the "creativity" department and longed for a way to convey how I see the world around me. I am thankful that my love affair with photography continues to grow and has provided me with a tool to express myself . . . Thanking my Heavenly and earthly fathers for their love and blessings.